We all know that air pollution affects our lungs and respiratory organs. Did you know that it also has the potential to harm the kidney and renal system? The kidney is known to filter out toxins, waste and unnecessary fluid from the blood through urine. When you breathe in polluted air, it affects the kidney as well. There have been many studies which prove that air pollution, kidney disorders and renal failure are related as the pollutants impair the filtering system of the organ, which can lead to serious diseases.
Here is how air pollution can affect the kidney functioning:
– Deposition in the respiratory tract
Fine particles and pollutants suspended in the air pass via the bronchi and bronchioles and enter into the respiratory system. They can inflame the respiratory tissues and can cause damage. This can lead to bronchitis and elevate respiratory conditions like asthma.
– Blood pressure can affect the kidney
High blood pressure is a contributing factor to kidney disease as it drains the blood vessels and makes it difficult for the kidney to function smoothly and filter out the waste from the body.
– Cardiovascular effects on kidney
Poor quality of air can also have a significant impact on the heart as well. In fact, it may also result in atherosclerosis, which is the condition of the hardening of the arteries. This can further affect the flow of blood in the kidneys and affect its functioning.
– Diabetes can affect kidney functioning
A few studies have found that developing type 2 diabetes is associated with air pollution. Diabetes damages the kidney and blood vessels; this can further lead to chronic kidney disease.
– Oxidative stress in the body
Due to the unbalanced free radicals and antioxidants in the body which get triggered by pollution, there is an increase of oxidative stress in the body. This can lead to kidney damage as well.
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